How To Grow Watermelon In Texas

Watermelons are one of the most popular fruits in Texas. They are a great source of hydration and vitamins, perfect for hot summer days. They are loved by people of all ages and used in various dishes.If you’re interested in growing your watermelon crop, there are a few things you need to know about the best time to plant Watermelon in Texas.

Table of Contents show

The climate in Texas is perfect for growing watermelons – it’s warm with plenty of sunshine.The best time to plant Watermelon in Texas in late May to early July. This will give the watermelons enough time to mature before the hot summer temperatures.

Here are some tips on how to grow watermelons in Texas:

Choose the right variety. There are many different types of watermelon, and some are better suited to the Texas climate than others. Do some research to find a variety that will do well in your area.
Start with healthy plants. Once you’ve chosen your variety, it’s essential to start with healthy plants. You can either grow your own from seed or purchase young plants from a nursery.
Plant in the right location. Watermelons need full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. Choose a spot in your garden that meets these requirements. If you’re growing your watermelons in containers, make sure the pots are at least 20 gallons in size.
Water regularly. Be sure to check the soil moisture level frequently and water accordingly. Watermelons are thirsty plants, so they need to be watered regularly – especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize as needed. Watermelons are heavy feeders, so they’ll need to be fertilized regularly. Use a high-quality fertilizer formulated for vegetables, and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Protect from pests and diseases. Unfortunately, watermelons are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. To keep your plants healthy, be on the lookout for signs of problems and take steps to prevent or control them.
Harvest When Ready
Watermelons are usually ready to harvest in about 2-3 months. They should be a deep green color with no white spots. To check if a watermelon is ripe, thump it—it should sound hollow. You can also look for a tendril on the vine that has dried up—this is a good indication that the fruit is ripe and ready to pick.

Top varieties of Watermelon that grow in Texas

There are many different varieties of Watermelon that can be grown in Texas. Some of the most popular include:

Sugar Baby Watermelon: This is a small, round watermelon that only weighs about 6-8 pounds. It has dark green skin and sweet, red flesh.

Crimson Sweet Watermelon: This is a larger watermelon that can weigh up to 20 pounds. It has dark green skin with deep red flesh. The flavor is very sweet and juicy.

Yellow Doll Watermelon: This Watermelon is small and round, like the Sugar Baby. However, it has yellow skin and light pink flesh. The flavor is not as sweet as other varieties.

Texas Watermelon: This is a large, oblong watermelon that can weigh up to 40 pounds. It has green skin with deep red flesh. The flavor is very sweet and juicy.

How to Tell If a Watermelon Is Ripe

Watermelons are usually ready to harvest in about 2-3 months. You’ll know they’re ripe when the skin is a deep green color with no white spots. To check if a watermelon is ripe, thump it—it should sound hollow. You can also look for a tendril on the vine that has dried up—this is a good indication that the fruit is ripe and ready to pick.

How to prevent Insects on Watermelon Plants

There are a few things you can do to prevent insects from attacking your watermelon plants:

Make sure the plants are healthy and well-cared for.
Keep the area around the plants clean and free of debris.
Use row covers or insect netting to keep pests away.
Be sure to check the plants regularly for signs of infestation and take steps to control the problem immediately.

How to store Watermelons

Watermelons can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks. If you need to store them for longer, you can put them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to wrap them in plastic first.